Why the Printing and Publishing Industry Faces Heightened Cyber Security Risks

The UK printing and publishing sector is increasingly vulnerable to cyber breaches, a trend highlighted by recent high-profile attacks on major industry players. In early 2025, CPI, the UK’s leading book printer, and The Agency, a prominent literary agency, were both hit by ransomware attacks, disrupting operations and threatening sensitive data. This heightened risk can be attributed to several factors, including the sector’s reliance on digital systems, the evolving nature of cyber threats, and specific vulnerabilities within the industry. As the UK continues to face a growing number of cyber-attacks, understanding these risks is crucial for protecting businesses in the printing and publishing sector.

The Impact of Recent Cyber Attacks

Recent cyber-attacks in the UK printing and publishing sector have underscored the industry’s vulnerability. CPI’s ransomware attack, which disabled its IT systems, had significant repercussions for clients like the Welsh company Firefly Press, whose profits were severely impacted due to the inability to print books on schedule. Similarly, The Agency faced a ransomware attack attributed to the Rhysida group, which threatened to publish stolen data unless a ransom was paid. These incidents demonstrate how cyber breaches can have far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the targeted businesses but also their clients and partners. The fact that these attacks occurred despite existing security measures highlights the sophistication and adaptability of modern cyber threats.

The UK’s broader cybersecurity landscape also contributes to the heightened risk faced by the printing and publishing sector. Cyber-attacks have increased threefold in 2024 alone, with the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) warning that the UK is underestimating the severity of these threats. The use of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) by cyber attackers further complicates the situation, allowing even inexperienced attackers to execute sophisticated attacks. Additionally, the growing reliance on cloud technology and the Internet of Things (IoT) expands potential entry points for malicious actors, making it increasingly challenging for businesses to secure their systems.

Industry Vulnerabilities and Cybersecurity Challenges

The printing and publishing sector faces unique vulnerabilities that exacerbate its risk of cyber breaches. Printers, often overlooked as potential vulnerabilities, can be easily targeted if left unsecured. Default passwords, unsecured network connections, and outdated firmware are common weaknesses that can be exploited by attackers. Furthermore, the sector’s reliance on digital systems for production and data storage means that any disruption can have significant operational and financial impacts. The UK Government’s efforts to enhance cybersecurity, such as proposing legislation to counter ransomware and protect critical infrastructure, are crucial steps but may not fully address the specific challenges faced by smaller businesses in the sector.

The UK’s technology skills gap also poses a significant challenge for the printing and publishing industry. With 98% of technology leaders acknowledging this gap, sourcing appropriate cybersecurity oversight remains a major issue. Human error and the need to upskill existing employees are key challenges in addressing this gap, making it difficult for businesses to implement robust cybersecurity measures effectively. As the sector continues to evolve, prioritising cybersecurity and addressing these skills gaps will be essential in mitigating the risk of cyber breaches. The UK’s cybersecurity sector is growing, with significant investments and job creation, but the demand for skilled professionals continues to outpace supply.

Evolving Cyber Threats and Regulatory Responses

The evolving nature of cyber threats requires the printing and publishing sector to adapt its cybersecurity strategies continuously. Ransomware, in particular, remains a significant threat, with attackers diversifying their tactics and targeting smaller enterprises. The UK Government is responding to these challenges by proposing legislation to counter ransomware, including a ban on ransomware payments for public sector bodies and critical national infrastructure. Additionally, there is a push for mandatory reporting of ransomware attacks within 72 hours, which could help improve incident response times and reduce the impact of breaches. However, these measures may not fully address the sector-specific vulnerabilities and require businesses to take proactive steps to enhance their cybersecurity.

Conclusion

The UK printing and publishing sector is at a heightened risk of cyber breaches due to its reliance on digital systems, the evolving nature of cyber threats, and specific vulnerabilities within the industry. Recent attacks on CPI and The Agency have highlighted the potential consequences of these breaches, from operational disruptions to financial losses. As the UK continues to face an increasing number of cyber-attacks, it is crucial for businesses in the sector to prioritise robust cybersecurity measures, address the technology skills gap, and stay informed about regulatory developments aimed at enhancing cybersecurity. By understanding these risks and taking proactive steps, the printing and publishing industry can better protect itself against the ever-present threat of cyber breaches and ensure the continuity of its operations in a rapidly changing digital landscape.

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